Silversea Luxury Cruises To PORTLAND (Maine)

Portland, Maine The largest city in Maine, Portland was founded in 1632 on the Casco Bay Peninsula. It quickly prospered through shipbuilding and the export of inland pines which made excellent masts. A long line of wooden wharves stretched along the seafront, with the merchants' houses on the hillside above. From the earliest days it was a cosmopolitan city. View more

When the railroads came, the Canada Trunk Line had its terminal right on Portland's quayside, bringing the produce of Canada and the Great Plains one hundred miles closer to Europe than any other major U.S. port. Some of the wharves are now occupied by new condominium developments, with the exception of the Customs House Wharf, which remains much as it used to be. Grand Trunk Station was torn down in 1966 and a revitalization program of this historic section was spearheaded by a group of committed residents. The result was the revival of the Old Port Exchange District with its redbrick streets built in the 1860s following a disastrous fire. The area today features a wide variety of restaurants, specialty and antique shops, and makes for a pleasant place for a stroll. Congress Street and its many side streets are an engaging mixture of culture, commerce and history. Art is everywhere, from the Portland Museum of Art to the many statues and monuments throughout the city. Other points of interest include the Portland Observatory, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's childhood home, several colonial mansions and Fort Williams Park, with the adjacent Portland Head Light. Farther afield one can visit the charming yachting and fishing village of Kennebunkport, also noted as the locale of the home and summer White House of former President George Bush. Going Ashore in Portland Pier Information The ship is scheduled to dock at the Portland Ocean Terminal, a very easy walk to the Old Port District located about two blocks away. Taxis are available at the pier. Shopping A wide range of Maine-made clothing, crafts and imported items can be found in shops along the cobblestone streets of the quaint Old Port Exchange. Small boutiques and numerous art galleries feature everything from paintings, crafts and furniture to prints and photographs. Antique lovers will enjoy browsing through area shops. Bargain hunters may want to visit the designer factory outlet shops in Freeport. On Sundays, most shops are open from 12:00 noon to 5:00-6:00 p.m. The local currency is the dollar. Cuisine Portland has the most restaurants per capita, second only to San Francisco. Eating establishments are as diverse as the menus they offer. The fresh catch of the day can be found on most menus, but seafood is only one of many culinary delights. From specialty coffee houses and ethnic restaurants to chowder and lobster houses to elegant dining rooms, Portland makes it easy to please every palate. Other Sights Longfellow's "City by the Sea" Portland is a walkable city, and a good place to start exploring is at the Old Port with its striking buildings comprising a bevy of architectural styles, ranging from Italianate to Mansard, Queen Anne to Greek Revival. The charming streets house an amazing collection of shops, galleries, bookstores and restaurants. Congress Street and the Arts District reflect the changes of 350 years of history, boasting an engaging mixture of culture and commerce. Portland Museum of Art The museum's award-winning building is a blend of 1911 Beaux Arts and 1983 post-modernism. It houses one of New England's finest art collections. Don't miss the museum's indoor Sculpture Garden. Portland Observatory Built in 1807, this is a rare example of a signal tower from which signal flags would be flown to identify incoming vessels. Factory Outlets of Freeport About a 25-minute drive north of Portland (approximately $35 one way for a taxi), this shopping mecca is crammed with serious shoppers who come from as far away as New York. Private arrangements for independent sightseeing may be requested through the Tour Office on board.

An Introduction to Silversea Cruises

The romance of the seas, small ship sizes and intimate atmosphere, Silversea has long been a leader in the ultra-luxury market. Travelling to both iconic and secluded ports, Silversea’s award-winning itineraries inspire wanderlust and exploration. With over 900 destinations, longer port stays and more late-night departures than ever before, even the savviest traveler will find something new. A butler for every suite, a complimentary in-suite bar stocked with your preferences, all-inclusive exquisite dining, award-winning onboard entertainment and an unparalleled space to guest ratio all contribute to the Silversea experience. Not forgetting our famed Italian hospitality, where new faces become old friends. Bienvenuti a bordo.

Excursions in PORTLAND (Maine)

Explore the history and landmarks of Portland on-foot during this scenic sightseeing excursion beyond the Old Port.

Portland City Walking Tour, Mansions, Old Port, Commercial Street, City Hall, First Parish Church

Depart the pier for your scenic and guided, approximately two-hour walking tour through Portland City. Along the way, learn about the history of the city and its vibrant food and beer scene, and stop for photos whilst passing by a host of renowned landmarks and picturesque viewpoints. Highlights of your guided stroll include the Wadsworth-Longfellow Mansion, Victoria Mansion, Old Port, Commercial Street, City Hall and First Parish Church.

Next, continue on to the Portland Observatory, which offers lovely panoramic views of your surrounds. From here, walk along Portland's waterfront area, the Eastern Promenade, with its spectacular views of Casco Bay and the Calendar Islands. Here, thriving harbour activities exist side-by-side with retail venues established in shops and restaurants. Your last stop is the Arts District. Upon arrival, take a stroll past theatres, art schools, galleries and museums that include the Portland Museum of Art, designed by I.M. Pei. At the conclusion of your tour, commence the short walk back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately two miles-four miles (about 3.2 kilometres-6.4 kilometres) at times over hills, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and 30 steps at the Eastern Promenade. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear warm, layered clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection and a sweater or light jacket from the ship. The tour sequence may vary. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Embrace the seaside beauty and charm of Maine's famous rocky coastline and coastal village of Kennebunkport during this picturesque, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Kennebunkport

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour orientation drive to the historic and charismatic coastal village of Kennebunkport via Portland City. Kennebunkport gained worldwide exposure as the summer home of President George H.W. Bush. Upon arrival in Kennebunkport, drive past stunning, Federal- and Victorian-style mansions that were built by wealthy sea captains and merchants in the 1700s and 1800s.

Following your sightseeing drive through Kennebunkport, a stop is made in the town centre at Dock Square for approximately 1.5 hours of free time at your leisure. You can stroll the quaint streets lined with shops, galleries, unique boutiques, antique stores, restaurants, and pubs; purchases are at the expense of each guest.

Walker's Point, Bush Estate, Summer White House

At the conclusion of your visit, re-board the coach and head for a photo stop at Walker's Point. Afterward, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 45-minute drive back to the pier. En route, pass by the Bush Estate and former Summer White House, where world leaders often gathered.

Please note: This tour involves a minimal amount of walking, at times over uneven and gravel surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. Walking in Kennebunkport is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear warm, layered clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection and a sweater or light jacket from the ship. The tour sequence may vary.

Discover a trio of prominent lighthouses along the beautiful, rocky coast of Portland during this panoramic, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Portland, Bug Light, Liberty Ship Memorial Sculpture

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 45-minute drive through historic Portland en route to the Bug Light, a lighthouse built of brick-lined cast iron. Nicknamed for its small size, this elegant Portland Breakwater Light was first lit in 1875. Upon arrival, view the impressive lighthouse and sculptural tribute, Liberty Ship Memorial, dedicated to 266 ships built here during World War II.

Next, re-board your coach and continue on to the Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse. Upon arrival, view this typical, sparkplug-style lighthouse, which was constructed of brick on a cylindrical cast-iron caisson and dates from 1891. After a photo stop here, head to Fort Williams Park for a visit to Maine's oldest lighthouse, the Portland Head Light. Upon arrival, some free time is made available to explore Fort Williams. Take in spectacular coastal and ocean vistas, and view interesting navigational aids at the Museum, located in the former lighthouse keeper's quarters. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 35-minute drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a minimal amount of walking for approximately 325 yards (about 297 metres), at times over uneven and gravel surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. Walking at the Portland Head Light is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear warm, layered clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection and a sweater or light jacket from the ship. The tour sequence may vary.

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.5-hour foodie walk through the streets of the charming Old Port. A hundred years ago, this area was home to fish houses, canneries, industrial factories and textile mills, and the air was heavy with industrial smoke. Today, the air is fragrant with the fresh ocean breeze and aromas emanating from coffee houses, bakeries and award-winning restaurants, all tempting passers-by as they wind their way through the scenic, narrow streets of the Old Port.

Old Port, Tastings of Local Specialities at Five Food Venues

During the foodie walk, your friendly, engaging guide takes you to several Old Port venues for tastings of Maine-inspired, locally-made foods, and a behind-the-scenes look at those who craft these epicurean delights. As you sample the fare at the various stops, your guide and proprietor reveal the history behind their industry, the uniquely Maine products that are used, and a hint or two as to why they are simply award-winning year-after-year.

Local Landmarks and History

Along the way, see local landmarks and learn about the unique and colourful local history of this port city, which Bon Appétit magazine crowned 'America's Foodiest Small Town for 2009'. At the conclusion of your foodie walk, tastings and sightseeing, commence the short walk back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 1.5 hours, at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces, sidewalks and curbs. This tour is not suitable for guests with food allergies, guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear warm, layered clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection and a sweater or light jacket from the ship. The tour sequence may vary.

Experience the rustic beauty and historic landmarks of Portland from a unique perspective during this memorable sightseeing tour by horse-drawn wagon.

Portland, Horse-Drawn Wagon-Ride, Photo Stops

Depart the pier aboard a 19th-century, horse-drawn wagon for a scenic, approximately two-hour sightseeing ride through the city of Portland. Your guide points out historic sites as your matched team of horses trots through the narrow streets and past some of the city's most renowned landmarks, with photo stops along the way.

Next, ride along Portland's waterfront area, the Eastern Promenade, with its spectacular views of Casco Bay and the Calendar Islands. Here, thriving harbour activities exist side-by-side with retail venues established in shops and restaurants. Your last stop is the Arts District. Upon arrival, take a stroll past theatres, art schools, galleries and museums that include the Portland Museum of Art, designed by I.M. Pei. At the conclusion of your tour, commence the short ride back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a minimal amount of walking, with three steps to negotiate to get on/off the horse-drawn carriage. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear warm, layered clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection and a sweater or light jacket from the ship. The tour sequence may vary. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Explore Portland at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this programme. Please see the Shore Concierge on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

MONTREAL

NEW YORK

QUEBEC CITY

SAGUENAY (Quebec)

SYDNEY (Nova Scotia)

An Introduction to Silversea Cruises

The romance of the seas, small ship sizes and intimate atmosphere, Silversea has long been a leader in the ultra-luxury market. Travelling to both iconic and secluded ports, Silversea’s award-winning itineraries inspire wanderlust and exploration. With over 900 destinations, longer port stays and more late-night departures than ever before, even the savviest traveler will find something new. A butler for every suite, a complimentary in-suite bar stocked with your preferences, all-inclusive exquisite dining, award-winning onboard entertainment and an unparalleled space to guest ratio all contribute to the Silversea experience. Not forgetting our famed Italian hospitality, where new faces become old friends. Bienvenuti a bordo.